Rapid Custom FPGA Board Development with PCIe104-MAX
In the fast-paced world of embedded computing, flexibility and speed are paramount. Our latest customer success story highlights how Sundance DSP transforms complex customer requirements into high-performance computing solutions with remarkable efficiency.
Understanding the PCIe104 Form Factor
The PCIe104 form factor represents a standardized approach to embedded computing design, providing a compact and versatile platform for advanced hardware solutions. Designed to meet the demanding requirements of industrial, aerospace, and high-performance computing applications, PCIe104 boards offer exceptional modularity and performance.
Introducing PCIe104Z: A Powerful Base Platform
Our PCIe104Z board exemplifies cutting-edge embedded technology, built around the Xilinx Zynq UltraScale+ MPSoC. This powerful platform offers:
- Four Gen 2.0, x1 lane PCIe interfaces through a switch
- Two Gen 4.0, x4 lane PCIe interfaces connected to PL parts
- Support for Zynq Ultrascale+ MPSoC with various package options
- Up to 4GB DDR4 to PL
- Comprehensive interface options including USB, SATA, Display Port
- FMC expansion with 10 GTH transceivers and 80 LVDS IO pairs
Custom Requirements: Tailoring Technology to Specific Needs
Our customer approached us with a unique set of requirements that demanded a customized version of the PCIe104Z. Their specific modifications included:
- Ethernet Connectivity
- – Replace 10-pin headers with Harting IX industrial connectors
- – Add a second Ethernet interface
- USB and SATA Modifications
- – Route USB and SATA signals to PCIe104 connector
- – Implement one USB 3.0 and one USB 2.0 interface
- Mechanical Adaptations
- Increase FMC connector height to accommodate Ethernet connectors
- Remove SATA and USB 10-pin headers
- Relocate PHY resets to PS (Processing System)
Introducing PCIe104-MAX: A Customized Solution
We transformed the PCIe104Z into the PCIe104-MAX, a board designed to meet our customers’ unique requirements. Despite technically exceeding standard PCIe104 size limits, the board maintained critical compatibility through standard mounting hole locations.
Rapid Development: From Concept to Shipping
What makes this project truly remarkable is the incredible speed of execution. Our team completed the entire development cycle in just 4.5 months, which included:
- Schematic modification
- PCB redesign
- Board assembly in the USA
- BSP (Board Support Package) development
- Comprehensive test procedure creation
- First batch testing and shipping
The Sundance DSP Difference
Our ability to rapidly deliver a highly customized, complex FPGA board demonstrates our commitment to:
- Flexible engineering solutions
- Fast turnaround times
- Deep technical expertise
- Customer-centric design approach
Unbelievable NRE Cost
You might be wondering about the non-recurring engineering (NRE) cost for such a comprehensive customization. The result will surprise you. While we can’t disclose exact figures here, our approach ensures cost-effectiveness that challenges industry norms. If you want to know more, contact us to be surprised.
Interested in a Custom Solution?
If you’re seeking a tailored embedded computing solution that meets your precise requirements, we invite you to contact us. Our team is ready to transform your unique vision into a high-performance reality.
Whether you need modifications to existing platforms or an entirely new design, we combine technical excellence with rapid development cycles to deliver solutions that exceed expectations.
Conclusion
The PCIe104-MAX project exemplifies our core philosophy: engineering flexibility, technical innovation, and unwavering commitment to customer success. By turning complex requirements into a fully functional, high-performance computing platform in just 4.5 months, we’ve demonstrated that custom design doesn’t mean complicated—it means precisely what you need.